Mission

Academic advisors at Parsons work with students on developing a plan to help them reach their educational goals.

What is advising?

Advising is a core component of the academic experience at Parsons. Interactions between advisors and students extend the teaching and learning objectives of the university beyond the classroom. Students may encounter a variety of factors that can affect academic performance as they work toward their degrees, and advisors are able to address many of these issues from a developmental perspective. Because they have extensive knowledge of campus resources, advisors can also teach students how to navigate the university system and act as liaisons between students and university services staff. Additionally, advisors help students learn how to communicate with faculty and other academic leadership when policy issues arise. The advisor’s role is to provide information and create a supportive environment.

PARSONS ADVISING VISION

Academic advisors aspire to engage students in making informed decisions and understanding the responsibilities connected with their decisions. We cultivate an environment where students will flourish creatively and intellectually, becoming artists and designers whose ideas and products will improve the world in which we all live.

Interpret and implement Parsons and university policies and procedures

Assess students’ needs and make appropriate referrals

Maintain accurate student records

Protect students' privacy (abide by FERPA regulations)

Maintain professionalism by being knowledgeable of the larger Parsons and university communities

Affirm that students are ultimately responsible for their own decisions and the outcomes of those decisions

STUDENT Responsibilities

Approach the advising process with informed questions and adequate preparation

Proactively use the resources provided by Parsons and the university

Regularly check their academic records and maintain current contact information through my.newschool.edu

Activate and regularly check their university email

Be aware of their right to confidentiality under FERPA guidelines

Be aware of their program and degree requirements and projected date of graduation

Be aware of posted registration deadlines (add, drop, withdraw, and refund) and complete all registration activities within these deadlines

Meet as needed with an advisor during posted office hours or by appointment

Be respectful when communicating with others at the university

PARSONS ADVISING RESOURCES

Advising services are administered through the Office of Advising, led by the assistant dean of advising and the directors of advising. Full-time professional academic advisors serve students across schools and programs. Students are assigned an advisor based on their program of study.

All members of the advising staff work closely with the academic leadership and faculty of the school and the Parsons Office of Student Affairs to answer questions about academic policies, majors, degree requirements, course offerings, and career development. To provide assistance in areas like billing, financial aid, time and stress management, and enhancing students' written and oral presentation skills, the advising staff will consult with and refer students to University Student Services offices: Health Services, Housing, International Student Services, Registrar, Student Disability Services, Student Financial Services, Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities, and the University Learning Center.

Advisors are available by appointment and may keep walk-in hours during certain times of the semester. Contact an advisor by calling 212.229.5855 or by visiting the Office of Advising at 2 West 13th Street, room 506 (except the School of Fashion advising office, which is located at 232 West 40th Street, 12th floor).